Netflix’s breakout star Owen Cooper has officially made television history. At just 15 years old, Cooper became the youngest male actor ever to win an Emmy Award, taking home the coveted trophy for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie for his haunting performance in the critically acclaimed drama Adolescence.
Born in Warrington, England, Owen Cooper had no prior professional acting experience before landing the role of Jamie Miller—a 13-year-old boy accused of murder—in Adolescence. Selected from over 500 hopefuls, Cooper’s raw and emotionally charged portrayal captivated audiences and critics alike, with each episode filmed in a single take.
The series, co-created by Stephen Graham, explores the dark undercurrents of teenage life, toxic masculinity, and online radicalization. It quickly became Netflix’s most-watched U.K. title of 2025, sparking national conversations and earning eight Emmy wins, including Best Limited Series.
During the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards on September 14, Cooper delivered a heartfelt acceptance speech that resonated far beyond the entertainment industry.
“I think tonight proves that if you listen, and you focus, and you step out of your comfort zone, you can achieve anything in life,” Cooper said, visibly emotional.
He went on to thank his parents, drama mentors, and the Adolescence team, saying, “It may have my name on this award, but it really belongs to the people behind the camera and Stephen and all the cast”.
Following his Emmy win, Cooper is set to star in BBC Three’s upcoming series Film Club and has been cast as young Heathcliff in Emerald Fennell’s Wuthering Heights, slated for a 2026 release.
Owen Cooper’s journey—from drama school in Manchester to the Emmy stage in Los Angeles—is a powerful reminder that talent, courage, and authenticity can break barriers. His win not only redefines what’s possible for young actors but also highlights the importance of storytelling that challenges societal norms.